Writing is Hard

Writing is hard.

It seems like it shouldn’t be though.

We read, write, speak and think everyday using language to construct and convey our ideas.

But, when it’s time to write a manuscript for a peer reviewed journal, or a technical paper on a science topic, it can stop us in our tracks.

It’s tricky. We get stuck. Motivation spirals down.

Sometimes we give up. Sometimes we set it aside for a few weeks, or months, or years…

Or sometimes we just try to move forward with what we have, even though it’s not really where it should be. Where it needs to be to clear the editor of your chosen journal, and pass through peer review with edits that feel…easeful instead of terrifying.

Producing medical and science writing that communicates complex information clearly, with simplicity AND necessary detail, and that is formatted to publisher requirements as well as for reader accessibility, is a huge undertaking.

It requires tapping into different mind states that allow the creative processes of generating ideas, gathering information, creating structure, producing thoughtful syntax and diction, and designing visual displays of data. Sustained, deep focus is needed for some portions of the work, but not all. It is hard to find, maintain and manage the necessary mind states to develop a well researched and written, gorgeously designed, and perfectly edited scientific manuscript.

It also has huge rewards. For your recognition. For your career. For meaning-making - in your professional pursuits and your life.

I do this work every day. I actually like it.